A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brescia vs. Zadar for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Brescia or Zadar?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Brescia or Zadar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Brescia

Brescia is a under-rated, historic, and undisovered city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Brescia and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Brescia or Zadar?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zadar than Brescia. While Brescia is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zadar is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Brescia attracts visitors for its shopping. Brescia is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its historic and archeological sights. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also well known for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Brescia different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zadar and Brescia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brescia or Zadar?

Brescia
Zadar

Both Brescia and Zadar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Zadar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town is like a living museum, with city walls and a historic gate. The Church of St. Donatus, Zadar Cathedral, and the Zadar Archaeological Museum are all fascinating places to visit in town, but if you're looking for the most unique sight, make sure you check out The Sea Organ and The Sun Salutation.


Is the Food Better in Brescia or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brescia
Zadar

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Brescia and Zadar.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Zadar has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with outdoor cafes that serve up a healthy and delicious selection of recipes. The ingredients are fresh and local with olive oil and seafood making frequent appearances on the menus. Prices are also reasonable.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Brescia
Zadar

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brescia and Zadar.

Brescia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

If you're looking for night time activities Zadar has a few options to choose from. The town comes to life at night when the bars and restaurants fill with people chatting and socializing. This is an easy place to enjoy the evening as almost all of the nightlife venues are within a five minute walk of each other.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Brescia is not a resort destination.

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Brescia is not a resort destination.


Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brescia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. This is an easy place to snorkel because the water is so clear. There are also half and full day snorkeling trips that take you to some of the best spots.

Brescia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its beaches. However, Brescia is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. There are some nice beaches outside of town with one of the most famous being Sakarun Beach, which is part of the Zadar archipelago. There are a handful of beaches nearby that are pebbly and popular with the locals. These include Puntamika Beach and Beach Borik.

Brescia is not a beach destination.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zadar to see the historical old town. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Brescia or Zadar?

Brescia
Zadar

Brescia is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Brescia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Families?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zadar. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Couples?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming seaside town is fun to explore as a couple. There's a walled medieval town that is small and easy to wander around. There are also nearby beaches and great restaurants to explore. A highlight of a visit is watching the stunning sunsets by the water.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Students?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for students. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Zadar is a great town to visit as a student. The laid back lifestyle and low cost of living make this a great place to be a student. It's a relaxed environment with many nearby places to explore.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Is Brescia or Zadar Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brescia
Zadar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brescia and Zadar.

You'll find some public transit in Brescia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

While Zadar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.


Is Brescia or Zadar a more walkable city?

Brescia
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Zadar is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Brescia Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Brescia?

How long in Brescia or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Brescia or Zadar to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zadar than Brescia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Brescia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zadar, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zadar than Brescia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zadar that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zadar than Brescia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Zadar.


  • How many days in Brescia or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brescia 1-2 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Brescia or Zadar?

In Brescia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undisovered destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Zadar, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Brescia or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Zadar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer.


Five days in Brescia or Zadar?

Brescia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Brescia. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Brescia or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Brescia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Zadar. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Brescia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Brescia is €144, while the average daily cost in Zadar is €89. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Brescia and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brescia 75
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brescia 150
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Brescia and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Brescia or Zadar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Brescia


Hotels in Zadar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Brescia Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brescia 19
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • From Plitvice Lakes Private Round-Trip Transfer: $398
  • From Private Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport: $609
  • From Zagreb & Franjo Tudman Airport Private Transfer: $459
  • Krka National Park Private Tour from Zadar with transfer to Split: $283
  • Private One Way Transfer from Split to Zadar: $276
  • Private Transfer from Biograd Na Moru to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $68
  • Private Transfer from Borik Zadar to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $37
  • Private Transfer from Starigrad Paklenica to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $107
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Šibenik: $194
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Biograd Na Moru: $68
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Borik Zadar: $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Murter: $194

Is it cheaper to fly into Brescia or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Brescia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Brescia 47
    Zadar 28
Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zadar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zadar.

  • Small Group Cooking Class: $39
  • Private City Tour and Cooking Class: $96
  • Gourmet Sunset dinner on board: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brescia 31
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Tours and Activities in Zadar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zadar are as follows:

  • Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • Zadar historical guided tour: $16
  • Zadar Historical Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Old Town Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Group History Walking Tour in Zadar Old Town: $20
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $21
  • The Ultimate Zadar Walking Tour: $22
  • Early Morning Walking Tour of the Old Town: $24
  • Old Town Evening Group Guided Walking Tour: $24
  • Zadar City Tour 120min Walk: $24
  • Early Morning Walking Tour of the Old Town in Zadar: $26
  • Evening Walking Tour of the Old Town: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brescia 23
    Zadar 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604

Sample the Local Flavors in Zadar

Also in Zadar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, & Old Town Tour: $52
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Craft Gin and exclusive brandies in unique distillery: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Finger Food: $64
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $98


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brescia and Zadar, we can see that Brescia is more expensive. And not only is Zadar much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zadar would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zadar and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Brescia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brescia than you might in Zadar.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brescia Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brescia or Zadar?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Brescia and Zadar, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Brescia or Zadar?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Brescia or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brescia and Zadar. Many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Brescia is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brescia in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Brescia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brescia usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Brescia gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brescia usually receives more rain than Zadar. Brescia gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brescia 24°C (75°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brescia as well as Zadar. Most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Brescia is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Brescia average around 14°C (58°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Brescia often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Brescia gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Brescia usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zadar. Brescia gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brescia 14°C (58°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Brescia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Brescia is much colder than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Brescia averages around 1°C (35°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Brescia usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Brescia gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brescia usually receives less rain than Zadar. Brescia gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brescia 1°C (35°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Brescia during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Brescia is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brescia in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Brescia often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Brescia gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Brescia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zadar. Brescia gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brescia 13°C (55°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Brescia

Brescia Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)